External Retaining Rings for Shafts are safety elements for axially mounting universal use. Retaining Rings can transmit considerable axial loads between the element of the device which exerts the force and the groove in which the ring is assembled. Once the ring is assembled in the groove of a shaft, the portion of the ring extending beyond the groove surface holds an assembly in place, even under loaded conditions. The 2100-5100 family of External, Axial Mount Retaining Rings are available in shaft diameter sizes between 0.250 and 8.000 inches, and groove sizes between 0.230 and 7.660 inches. Ring thicknesses are between 0.025 and 0.187 inches.